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B&P wide-format digital printer bundles

Monday, June 25, 2007

Press release from the issuing company

June 22, 2007 -- Available from B&P Graphic Systems, and designed as a low-cost option for sign-makers and display producers who want a versatile printing and cutting package, are two wide-format digital printer bundles which include a separate cutting plotter. These two attractively priced packages include the latest eco-solvent ink options, inks and software and are delivered and installed ready to use.

Based on the Lancer G2, two size options are on offer, with the first having a maximum material width of 1.3 m and the second being a wider model at 1.63 m. Both are designed with established as well as first time users in mind and come complete with a Uniform Ultima cutting plotter and software. The bundles include a full set of inks, a take-up system and full training as well as the Troop! RIP and are priced at £11,995 for the narrower option and £16,995 for the wider version. Alternatively, these solutions are also available from £55/week and £61/week respectively.

The Uniform Lancer G2 1300 and Lancer G2 1625 offer up to three years' outdoor durability thanks to the incorporation of the latest eco-solvent ink technology, whilst applications can be laminated for use in extra tough environments, such as floor graphics and vehicle liveries. The machines feature four different print resolutions of 540 x 720, 720 x 720, 1440 x 720 and 1440 x 1440 dpi which have been pre-defined for fast set-up and grouped in quality, graphics and banner modes. This makes selection of suitable output quality quick and easy via the printer control panel, and eliminates the need to input complex settings for different types of job.

The inclusion in the Lancer G2 of intelligent interweaving, known as i2 (pronounced "I squared") produces high quality results by incorporating algorithms which lay the ink down in optimised wave forms instead of straight lines that are used commonly in wide-format printers. This technology eliminates the likelihood of banding, mottling and unwanted bleed as well as removing the effects often caused by a misfiring or absent print nozzle. This means that even the finest of applications can be output in bi-directional mode, not only speeding up throughput but also improving ink density.

Both printers use Uniform's own brand Eco-Solvent Ultra ink which offers a wider colour gamut, faster drying time and superior adhesion, as well as providing excellent resistance to scratches, scuffs and chemicals, faster print speeds and wider media compatibility. Tests have shown that printing with Uniform's Eco-Solvent Ultra inks is more than 20 percent cheaper than using conventional versions. These inks also have the benefit of being able to output onto a range of low cost PVC materials with standard paper backing, again leading to a similar percentage in savings.

Incorporated as part of this generous bundle, and featuring high quality drag-knife capabilities, the Uniform Ultima series of cutting plotters has been developed to be simple to use either as part of a print and cut solution or as a stand-alone vinyl cutter. Used in tandem with the Uniform Lancer, the Ultima uses its own electronic positioning, designated Epos, to create seamless contour cuts on pre-printed displays. On its own, this cutter can be used for vinyl signs or it can plot and output designs onto paper. Also featured is an automatic bar code registration system which individually numbers every job, thus virtually eliminating operator error. Unlike combined print and cut systems, the Lancer G2 and Ultima can either work together or be operated as independent sign and display production solutions.

Complementing the printer and cutter bundle is the acclaimed Troop! RIP which contains all the settings needed to prepare images for output, including options for sizing and cropping, checking colour gamut and tiling from a simple navigation screen. Troop Server speeds up production via selectable work-flow options, with the ability to drop images into the layout window ready for printing and the facility to use pre-RIPped files as job elements.

The Lancer G2 bundle also includes Uniform's warranty pack which includes an all-inclusive prompt on-site service for twelve months and covers all parts and labour. This also incorporates cover for print-heads which are excluded from most warranty cover options. As well as a support contract and unique user ID, there is a printer cleaning and self-care kit, plus a trouble-shooting guide and the latest Uniform ICC colour profiles.

Further information is available from Andrew Wilson at B&P Graphic Systems on 01932 568555, e-mail awilson@bplightbrigade.com